Perry Outdoor Education Trust (POET), established in 2003 supports low decile secondary schools to deliver outdoor education experiences for students by building capability and sustainability in the school through professional development, mentoring of teachers and direct funding to ensure no student is excluded through a lack of financial means. Coordinators are experienced outdoor educators who work alongside teachers supporting them to deliver outdoor experiences for their own students so they do not have to rely on costly outdoor providers or in many cases elect not to go at all. Where possible experiences take place close to home, are low cost and help build connections between students and their local environments and communities. A key principle is that outdoor programmes are facilitated by teachers. Positive relationships between teachers and students are promoted in recognition of the importance of these relationships in engaging students to learn in the classroom. The long term sustainability of the programme in the school is more likely when schools are able to deliver programmes themselves POET also supports schools in developing their systems to ensure quality outcomes are achieved consistently and experiences are safely managed. Training opportunities for teaching staff are important for building and maintaining leadership capability and programme sustainability. Teachers regularly involved in leading activities on POET supported events are expected to engage in professional learning and development and regular opportunities are provided. POET currently works with 12 partner schools, two kahui ako and many community groups and others.